It could help protect against dementia and a host of other neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease - and boost brain function in people already with neurological impairment.

The study included 17 clinical trials examining the effects of active gaming on cognitive skills across 926 people who ranged in age from their thirties to their eighties.

Psychologist Joseph Firth from Manchester University, said: "As people age their brain functioning such as memory, concentration and spatial awareness naturally decline.

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Scientists believe physical exercise such as Wii and Xbox Kin could boost the brain as we get older

"Various neurological conditions such Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, mild cognitive impairment and dementia can also impede people's cognitive functioning and reduce their ability to function day to day.

"Recently there has been much interest in using active video games in the rehabilitation of these conditions, and to promote healthy ageing.

"So we were fascinated to learn the available evidence shows how these sort of games can significantly improve overall cognitive functioning, and is particularly beneficial for attention, executive functioning and visuo-spatial abilities.

"Physically-active video games have, according to our research, greater impact on brain functioning than regular physical activity alone, suggesting their benefits are more than just moving around."

Participants played the games about three times a week for an average of ten weeks, each session ranging from 15 to 60 minutes.

Seven studies used the Nintendo Wii exergaming system and four used interactive dance games with pressure-sensitive platforms used to response to visual cues for foot movements.

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Playing Wii and Nintendo sports games improves mental function better than brisk walks

Three others used interactive cycling/treadmill training wherein participants completed various tasks or avoided obstacles while pedalling or walking around virtual tracks.

The Microsoft Kinect system delivered an aerobic exercise routine and, finally, one used interactive co-ordination training involving throwing or catching games in a virtual environment.

Mental faculties were then compared to control groups who either went about their normal business, took part in aerobic, balance, stretching and strengthening exercises or health education sessions, reading, cognitive remediation or memory training.

Mr Firth said: "The biggest benefit of exergames was in healthy, older individuals. Their executive function for instance - the brain's control room - saw a noteable improvement compared to those who just did physical activity such as going for brisk walks, for instance.

"Physical activity stimulates the body but animal studies have shown when you combine it with something that is mentally demanding - which active video games are - the brain is boosted to a larger degree than would be expected.

"In combination they are bigger than the sum of their parts. These are the games that kids have grown up with - but they could be most useful for older people."

Mr Firth said it is difficult to get the elderly to play active video games because they are unfamiliar with them although work is going on to introduce them to care homes.

He said: "They also improve the mental function of people already with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or other neurological illnesses - although not to the same degree.

"But with an ageing population these games could be of great benefit ten and 20 years down the line.

"Today's elderly are unfamiliar with them but that will not be the case further down the line.

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She said: "Our research shows the potential of active video games that can be used independently at home and remotely supervised by therapists.

"The brain benefits may be because these activities are physically demanding, while also requiring concentration and cognitive effort, resulting in positive effects for body and brain.

"We hope this research will encourage the NHS and social services to take up active gaming as part of their support packages- as some are already starting to do."